Many truckers who worked using permits from a company they were leasing from, followed my advice, bought a 53′ trailer, got all the DOT permits and went to work out of California.

Everything was fine until in 2009, the Federal Safety Administration (FMCSA) implemented a new way to control the new carriers or “New Entrant”. This law that was enforced in 2009 has been strictly implemented and says: All new carriers must fill out the MCS150 form, which is the personal identification of the new carrier, where they ask you what type of cargo you transport, what type of equipment or trailer you haul and how many drivers you have.

In the next 18 months, as a new carrier, you should:

Operate with extreme security.

Keep all the records and papers required.

Do all inspections and repairs as required by law.

Pass the audit that will be done in the first 6 months and comply with all the requirements required by law. A certified DOT inspector will make an appointment with you and give you some time to prepare. The owner of the company, mechanics, and the driver can be present at the audit.

What do the DOT inspectors look for?

Investigation and documentation after an accident……. Law 49CFR / 390

Proof of insurance………………………………………………….. Law 49CFR / 387

Maintenance of the equipment……………………………….. Law 49CFR / 393.6

Control and examination of drugs ………………………………Law 49CFR / 382

Management hours, logbook or ELDs …………………………Law 49CFR / 395

Hazardous materials (if applicable) …………………………….Law 49CFR / 171

These are causes for the new carrier to be automatically disqualified:

– Not being enrolled in a drug testing and control system.

– Employing a driver without first sending him to do the drug test.

– Employing a driver knowing that he is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

– A driver who, after having tested positive on the drug test, didn’t comply with the rehabilitation program.

-Employing a driver knowing that his license is suspended/revoked/canceled.

– Employing a driver who isn’t physically and mentally qualified.

– Employing a driver without first qualifying with references.

– Using a tractor or truck without proper insurance.

– Allow the driver to drive more hours than are allowed.

– Operating a truck without doing the repairs they told you on the scale.

– Not carrying the necessary inspections.

– Operating a truck without having inspections up to date.

Do everything right if you don’t want to lose your carrier’s license and do what I always tell you; don’t lend your permits because you will regret it. Don’t hesitate to contact me for any questions, I’ll be happy to help you at 909.396.3656